As an HVAC expert, I am often asked about the frequency of changing furnace filters. It's a common misconception that furnace filters only need to be changed once a year. In reality, the frequency of filter changes depends on various factors such as the type and size of the filter, the type of HVAC system, and the air quality in your home. In this article, I will provide you with all the information you need to know about changing furnace filters and how often you should do it. Firstly, let's talk about the different types of furnace filters.
There are one-inch, three- to four-inch, and five- to six-inch filters. The general rule of thumb is that a one-inch filter should be changed every one to three months, a three- to four-inch filter can last six to nine months, and a five- to six-inch filter can last nine to twelve months. However, this is just a general guideline and does not take into account other factors such as filter size and type.
Pleated air filters
, which are more expensive, can last up to six months before needing to be changed. It is important to note that these guidelines are for standard filters and may not apply to thicker or smaller filters. Therefore, it is recommended that you never leave an air filter unreplaced for more than 90 days.Fiberglass air filters are more affordable but less efficient at capturing dust and particles from the air. They usually need to be changed every 30 days or less. Now, let's discuss how to change a furnace filter. It's a simple process that involves loosening the screws that hold the filter cover in place if it is located behind a return air vent or removing the filter from a slot if it is on the side of the furnace. The furnace filter is responsible for cleaning the air of contaminants and dust before it enters the HVAC system.
As a general rule, it is recommended to change the air conditioning equipment, including filters, every 90 days. If your furnace can handle it, opt for a filter with a MERV rating of 12, such as the Nordic Pure Filter (available on Amazon).Every home is unique, and so is its air quality. Therefore, it's essential to keep an eye on your furnace filter and change it accordingly. As an expert, I can tell you that furnace filters have an overall lifespan.
They are designed to trap dust and particles suspended in the air as it passes through the filter and enters the furnace system. Regularly changing your furnace filter will not only improve your indoor air quality but also extend the lifespan of your HVAC system. But did you know that you also need to change your oven filter regularly? Many homeowners are unaware of this and only focus on changing their furnace filters. The primary purpose of an oven filter is not to clean the air you breathe, but to clean the air that passes through the oven and other HVAC equipment. A flat filter, such as the Flanders front panel filter (available on Amazon), should be changed every 30 days. At our company, we offer a variety of filters for different types of furnaces.
We have filters for 1-inch, 2-inch, and 5-inch furnaces, as well as whole-house air filter brands and filters for rigid-cell furnaces. The type of filter you need depends on your specific HVAC system and air quality. It's also important to consider your lifestyle when determining how often you should change your furnace filter. For example, a vacation home where you only live part-time will require fewer filter changes than a large family home with numerous occupants. Additionally, thicker filters tend to last longer and provide better filtration over time, but they may cost more upfront. If you or anyone in your household suffers from allergies, it's crucial to change your furnace filter regularly.
Make a note of how often you change filters and always use the correct type of filter for your HVAC system. Neglecting to change your furnace filter can result in higher long-term costs, such as more frequent repairs or the need to replace the entire HVAC system earlier than expected.
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